Royals defend MRU Cup

The Consort Royals Rugby Union Club retained the Morobe Rugby Union (MRU) title after holding off the Irok Pirates to an 11-10 victory in the Men’s Premier Grade Grand Final on Sunday, 20 September 2026, at Lae’s SCRUM Oval. 

As the defending premiers, expectations were on the Royals, to which they embraced the challenge with both hands, delivering a gritty one-point win to keep the MRU’s bragging rights in two straight years.

Royals, a club originally from Bumbu Barracks, have been participating in the MRU competition for over two decades, winning 20-plus titles and becoming a household name in Lae’s rugby union circle.

The club comprises players from different parts of Lae city, including Eriku, Boundary Road, Bundi Camp, Nawae Block, Kamkumung, Town, Cassowary Road, Martin Luther Seminary, Tent City Barracks, Bugandi Secondary, and Lae Secondary. 

Club President Joel Wimbi, who joined the Royals in 2025, said they started flat-footed but bounced back during the match, attributing the club’s consecutive title success to their faith, team spirit, and discipline.

“For me, coming in as the president and player in 2025 and now 2026, winning the back-to-back titles is so special, so I give all glory to our Almighty God,” he stated. 

“Discipline is key to every success, and it’s an amazing feeling to win back-to-back titles.

“We started slow, but eventually, the players put more effort into the game, and we managed to get the result as champions.” 

He thanked the sponsors: “We would like to thank the Consort Express Lines for their sponsorship, the Lae Metro Command, PGJ, and Co Consultants Ltd, one of our big brothers who is always supporting us behind the scenes.”  

Mr. Wimbi also acknowledged the club management, players, Awa Sam Koi, 360 Image, and the fans for making the 2026 season another memorable, successful year.

Although the club’s U-20 and A Grade did not reach the finals, the Premier Division made the Royals proud with their title defence. 

Established in 1988, Consort Royals Rugby Union Club is one of the oldest clubs in the Morobe Rugby Union competition. Winning consecutive titles in 2025 and 2026, the club aims for a three-peat next year.